Jaguars dismiss Mularkey, won't pursue Tebow

January 10, 2013|Sports Xchange

Jaguars coach Mike Mularkey went 2-14 in his only season in Jacksonville. (Getty Photo)

The Jacksonville Jaguars fired head coach Mike Mularkey after one season, general manager David Caldwell announced Thursday. Caldwell also said he wasn't interested in acquiring quarterback Tim Tebow from the New York Jets.

“I informed Mike today that he will not return as head coach of the Jaguars,” Caldwell said. “I know Mike well and do not want anyone to misinterpret the rationale behind my decision. Mike is an excellent coach and I am sure he will succeed in his next stop in the NFL. However, I must do what I believe is best for the Jacksonville Jaguars and immediately explore every avenue possible to turn our football team around. For that to happen as seamlessly as we want, and as quickly as our fans deserve, I feel it is in everyone's best interests for an immediate and clean restart."

The move means the Chicago Bears now are one of six teams looking for a new head coach.

Mularkey went 2-14 in his only season with the Jaguars, after having spent four years as the Atlanta Falcons' offensive coordinator. The Jaguars hired Caldwell earlier this week.

"Mike Mularkey is leaving our organization with my utmost respect," Jaguars owner Shad Khan said. "Mike gave the Jaguars everything he had on and off the field, and his efforts as our head coach will always be appreciated. Mike will land on his feet soon. Until then, I wish nothing but the best for Mike and his family."

Regarding Tebow, Caldwell said, "I can't imagine a scenario where he would be a Jacksonville Jaguar."

Tebow spent the 2012 season as a little-used backup for the Jets after leading the Denver Broncos to a playoff win the previous season. There long has been speculation about the Jaguars wanting to acquire Tebow as a gate attraction because he played high school football in the Jacksonville area before starring at the University of Florida.